Precocious talent shines in Footloose

America, and newly arrived dissident Ren Mccormack embarks on a campaign to have it restored.

Plot aside, this latest in a fine tradition of local secondary productions is marked by some precocious acting and singing talent, fluent moves, colourful costumes and an abundance of energy.

Pacy as well as pithy, the production has two engaging lead performers in Josiah Nevell as Ren, the hyperactive and tenacious outsider, and Anya Darby as Arial Moore, the rebellious and promiscuous daughter of the town preacher.

Darby features in the affecting vocal trio Learning To Be Silent sung with Lisabet Morgan as Ren’s mum, Ethel, and Amy Mclaren as mum Vi Moore. Mclaren shows an impressive voice, with matching presence and timing with Kyle Dahl, who stands out as the troubled Reverend Shaw Moore.

There are excellent singing and acting performances, notably for the anthem Let’s Hear It For The Boy, from Katie Atkins as Arial’s friend Rusty, and Chris Dewhurst as the Forrest Gumpy Willard.

The principals move beyond stereotypes and come up with interesting characters that have depth, dimension and wry humour.

Cohesive choreography and quick set changes add to the show’s vitality and purpose. Propelled by Paul Dredge’s admirable eight-piece on-stage band, Footloose is another fantastic effort.